1. Crohn’s Disease:
Made Easy
Jurmaida H. Pagayao, BSN, RN

2. OVERVIEW OF
CROHN’S DISEASE
Jurmaida H. Pagayao, BSN, RN

3. Definition
• Type of inflammatory bowel disease
(IBD)
• Usually occurs in the ileum, but it can
affect any part of the digestive
tract, from the mouth to the anus

4. • Diagnosis is sometimes difficult since
Crohn’s often is very similar to other
disorders including irritable bowel
syndrome and ulcerative colitis.

5. Incidence
• Both men and women are equally
affected.

6. Onset
• Most likely to occur between the ages
of 15 and 30 years and after the age of
60.

7. Etiology
• Unknown.

8. Clinical Findings
• Most common symptoms:
– Abdominal pain, often on lower right
quadrant
– Diarrhea

9. • Rectal bleeding
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Anemia may occur if bleeding is
persistent

10. NURSING FOCUS

11. • Monitor intake and output
• Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance
• Assess for skin breakdown
• Provide routine skin care

12. • Unless contraindicated, fluid intake
should be 3000 mL/day
• Use calorie counts to ensure adequate
nutrition
• Monitor lab results

13. PATIENT TEACHING

14. • Provide patient and family with
literature on Crohn’s Disease
• Instruct patient that fluid intake
should be at least 3 liters per day
• Meals should be small and frequent to
maintain adequate nutrition

15. • Teach patient to minimize the
frequency and severity of future
exacerbations by:
– Getting adequate rest and
relaxation
– Reducing or avoiding stress
– Maintaining adequate nutrition
• Explain the dosages, route, actions and
adverse reactions of meds.